Just because summer has drawn to a close, it doesn’t mean you have to put away your camping gear. Fall can be a great time for a camping trip if you are properly prepared.

There are many advantages to camping in the fall, including cooler weather, fewer bugs, less crowded campsites, more chances to spot wildlife, and beautiful changing scenery. As long as you stick to the following tips, it can be just as enjoyable (if not even more enjoyable) as camping in the summer.

Dress in Layers

Layering is the key to staying comfortable while camping in colder seasons. It allows you to bundle up if the temperatures drop and remove some outer layers when it gets warmer again. Your inner layer should be a lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric like polyester or nylon. Avoid cotton as it will hang on to moisture. Bring an assortment of middle layers such as sweaters, fleeces, and lighter jackets, and choose an outer layer that is both wind- and water-resistant. You should also have a hat, a pair of gloves, and a few pairs of extra-warm socks.

Upgrade Your Sleeping Bag and Bring a Sleeping Pad

Because sleeping bags are designed for different temperatures, the bag you were using all summer might not be suited to fall camping. Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for even lower temperatures than you are anticipating just in case of an unexpected chill. Bringing extra blankets for layering is also a good idea. Sleeping pads will provide further comfort and insulation against any cold that might seep up from the ground.

Make Sure You Have Some Extra Tarps

When camping in the fall, you can never have too many tarps. Unpredictable fall weather may bring surprise wind and rain which a tarp can provide additional shelter from. You can also put a tarp underneath your tent so that it’s not directly sitting on cold and wet ground. Throwing a tarp over your tent’s rainfly can help keep out unwanted cold and moisture as well.

Plan Some Fun Fall Activities

There is no shortage of outdoor activities to do in the fall. Hiking is always a good choice, especially as it won’t be so hot and you can enjoy the changing leaves at the same time. While swimming is likely out of the question, the calm waters of the season are great for canoeing. Other fantastic fall activities include fall fishing, bird watching, and even kite flying if you’re camping in an open space.

Prepare for Shorter Days

Don’t forget that the sun will be setting much sooner than it did on your summer camping trips, so plan accordingly. Make sure that you arrive at the campsite before dark and that activities like hiking are finished during daylight hours. Stock up on extra firewood as well, since you will likely be burning more of it.

Enjoy some quality time with friends and family this fall by heading out for at least one last camping excursion before winter hits. As long as you are well-prepared and outfitted with all the right gear, it’s sure to be a great trip.